Finding the funny through the fake

Comedians get to travel to some far-flung places but Saudi Arabia would have to be one of the more unusual stops on a funnymans circuit. For Darryl Lenox the Middle East was certainly a memorable moment, but not in the way youd think.

In 1998, he was invited to entertain U.S. military personnel stationed there in a desert camp. While on stage, Lenox noticed the commanding officer on base enjoying beer and a Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, two items forbidden under Saudi law and certainly serious contraband for the average soldier living in tents below the COs air-conditioned villa. Naturally Lenox incorporated his observations in that evening's performance. The troops loved it but the brass went nuclear, booting Lenox off the tour.

He doesnt seem to mind though, hes been touring top spots like Whistler, Las Vegas, Montreal, New York, San Francisco and everywhere in between ever since. So does he think hell make it back to the Middle East any time soon?

"No way. Ive done a couple of those USO tours and the first one was incredible, like a vacation visiting all those places. But in the end I just cant handle hypocrisy and even if I did it all over again, I wouldnt change a thing," he said.

Lenox is known for being a comedian with strong opinions and serves up an interesting perspective through his humour and social commentary. Its a style that may have got him kicked out of the army but it has served him well with the rest of the world.

"Im no different on stage to when Im off. Im a pretty introspective person and so once Ive got the mike I just talk about what Ive been thinking about, feeling or seeing, and considering comedy is so subjective, some people arent going to like it, although hopefully most people do and just see the funny side," said Lenox.

The Las Vegas born, Seattle raised, New York- and Vancouver-based nomad does not need to worry about being a hit. Hes won several awards already, including the coveted San Francisco Comedy Competition in 2000, known for being a tough one to win.

"Its more difficult doing comps because its not just a regular gig. Youre being judged. You might have a night where you thought you were great, the audience loved it but the judges saw something in you that wasnt worthy of a high score. Thats kinda hard to deal with," said Lenox.

At the end of the day for this comedy festival regular, its all about the good times, especially when the comedy festivals are on.

"For comedians, its like a big prom. Its the equivalent to a big film festival for actors and directors. Youre around peers and everyone from the industry is there. Everyones dressed up and really excited and wants to know who that new person is. The stuff offstage is way more exciting than whats actually going on onstage. Deals get done behind the scenes and its so exciting to be around all that stuff."

Laugh with Lenox at Buffalo Bills on Tuesday night for just $6. Show starts at 8:30 p.m., with Bills grill open for meals.